Worcester Animal Rescue League luau doggone fun

WORCESTER — The Worcester Animal Rescue League had its annual Bow Wow Luau on Saturday, where dog owners and friends of the organization donated dog food, toys, treats and other items.

"What we do is reliant on how people help," said Executive Director Allie Tellier. "Every little bit helps."

At the luau, dogs ranging from Chihuahuas to Chows, golden retrievers and even a 150-pound Saint Bernard mix enjoyed the afternoon with their owners. There was a raffle and Wooberry Frozen Yogurt's food truck was on hand.

Among the dozens of visitors showing their support was Faye Hall of Sterling, and her 6-year-old pit bull, Duncan, whom she adopted from the shelter in 2010.

Ms. Hall has owned dogs throughout her life, but Duncan is her first pit bull. She decided to adopt one after meeting her brothers' which she said was "the coolest, most mellow dog."

Even though her husband called her crazy, she said, "I saw him in here and I said that's my dog."

He was stubborn and needed extensive training.

"For the first two years we came twice a week for training," she said. "He's my boy ... I just like to support these guys."

The shelter provides stray dogs and other animals found in Worcester and surrounding towns with shelter, medical attention and then finds them new homes. One of the largest animal shelters in the state, it currently has about 20 dogs up for adoption and provides services for about 2,500 animals per year.

While normal adoption fees are $225 per dog, three dogs that have been at the shelter for over a year can be brought to the right home for just $50, thanks to an anonymous donor who came forward earlier this month, Ms. Tellier said.

"I see these dogs every day, just waiting to be adopted, and it breaks my heart" the donor wrote in a post shared on the shelter's website. "By lessening the adoption fee for the longer resident dogs, my hope is that someone out there will give them a chance."

The shelter is open daily from noon to 4 p.m. and offers grooming, veterinary and boarding services. For more information, visit WorcesterARL.org

Contact Alli Knothe at allison.knothe@telegram.com. Follow her on Twitter @KnotheA